The Best Hotels for Family Reunions

Planning a family reunion is a truly special undertaking. It’s about bringing generations together, creating new memories, and rekindling bonds that might have frayed with time and distance. The success of such an event often hinges on finding the perfect venue, a place that can comfortably accommodate a diverse group, offer engaging activities for all ages, and provide a welcoming atmosphere that fosters connection. Hotels, with their inherent amenities and services, often emerge as the ideal solution. But not all hotels are created equal when it comes to hosting a large, multi-generational gathering. We’ve scoured the globe and considered various factors – from spacious accommodations and family-friendly dining to recreational opportunities and the sheer ease of logistics – to compile this guide to the best hotels for family reunions.

The goal here is to provide a comprehensive overview, offering insights into why certain hotels stand out and what specific features make them exceptionally well-suited for your next big family get-together. We understand that “best” is subjective and depends on your family’s unique needs, budget, and desired location. Therefore, this list aims to be diverse, encompassing different types of properties and destinations, all united by their exceptional ability to facilitate memorable family reunions.

Finding the Right Fit: Key Considerations for Reunion Hotels

Before we dive into specific hotel recommendations, it’s crucial to establish what makes a hotel a strong contender for a family reunion. Several factors should be at the forefront of your decision-making process. These aren’t just about ticking boxes; they are about ensuring the comfort, enjoyment, and overall success of your gathering.

Accommodation Options: Space for Everyone

One of the most significant challenges of a family reunion is housing everyone comfortably. Hotels that excel in this area offer a variety of room configurations. This means more than just standard king or queen rooms. Look for hotels that provide:

Suites with Multiple Bedrooms: These are invaluable for families with young children or for siblings who want to share a space. They often include a living area, a kitchenette, and separate sleeping quarters, offering privacy and convenience.
Connecting Rooms: The ability to book rooms that connect directly allows families to keep younger children close to their parents or facilitate easy access for grandparents.
Villas or Residential-Style Accommodations: Some resorts offer private villas or apartment-style suites that can house larger family units, providing a home-away-from-home feel with the benefits of hotel services. These are particularly great for multi-generational groups where some members might prefer a more independent living space.
Rollaway Beds and Cribs: Ensuring that these are readily available and can be easily accommodated in standard rooms is a basic but essential requirement.

The capacity and flexibility of accommodation are paramount. A hotel that can comfortably house your entire group without feeling cramped will significantly contribute to a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Dining Experiences: Catering to All Tastes

Feeding a large, diverse group can be a logistical puzzle. The ideal reunion hotel will offer a range of dining options to satisfy different palates, dietary restrictions, and age groups. Consider hotels that provide:

Multiple Restaurants: Having several on-site restaurants, each with a different cuisine or atmosphere, allows families to dine together or split up based on preferences. Casual cafes, family-friendly buffets, and more upscale options are all valuable.
Family-Friendly Menus: Restaurants should offer kid-friendly options that go beyond the typical chicken tenders and fries. Think about healthy choices and dishes that appeal to younger, adventurous eaters.
Buffet Options: Buffets are often a godsend for family reunions. They allow individuals to choose exactly what they want, cater to a wide range of tastes, and can be a more cost-effective solution for feeding a large group. Many hotels offer special group buffet rates.
Private Dining Rooms: For special reunion meals, such as a welcome dinner or a farewell brunch, private dining rooms offer an intimate setting. This allows your family to celebrate without disturbing other guests and provides a more personalized service.
Room Service: While not for every meal, reliable and comprehensive room service can be a lifesaver, especially for families with very young children or those who prefer to relax in their rooms.
Flexibility with Dietary Needs: A good reunion hotel will be adept at handling allergies, dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.), and specific requests with grace and efficiency.

The ability to cater to everyone’s dietary needs and preferences without a fuss is a significant advantage. It removes a layer of stress for the planners and ensures that every family member feels considered and well-fed.

Activities and Entertainment: Keeping Everyone Engaged

A family reunion isn’t just about sleeping and eating; it’s about shared experiences. Hotels that are well-equipped with a variety of activities can turn a simple stay into an engaging and memorable event. Look for properties that offer:

Swimming Pools: A classic for a reason. Pools are a universally enjoyed amenity, providing fun for kids and a relaxing escape for adults. Indoor pools are a bonus for year-round appeal and weather protection.
Recreational Facilities: This can include anything from tennis courts, basketball courts, and fitness centers to golf courses, water sports (if near a beach or lake), and playgrounds. The more options, the better, to cater to different energy levels and interests.
Kids’ Clubs or Activities: For families with younger children, supervised kids’ clubs can provide a welcome break for parents and engaging entertainment for the little ones. Some hotels organize specific family reunion activities, like scavenger hunts or craft sessions.
Communal Spaces: Beyond individual rooms, having comfortable lounges, patios, or common areas where families can gather informally to chat, play games, or just relax together is invaluable.
Proximity to Attractions: If the hotel itself doesn’t have enough activities, its location near local attractions, parks, museums, or entertainment venues can be a significant draw.

The key is to have a mix of organized activities and plenty of opportunities for spontaneous family bonding. A hotel that facilitates both is ideal.

Meeting and Event Spaces: For Gathering Together

While informal gatherings are great, dedicated event spaces are crucial for planned reunion events. Whether it’s a formal dinner, a talent show, or a simple welcome reception, having access to appropriate venues is important:

Ballrooms or Large Meeting Rooms: These are essential for hosting larger group meals, presentations, or evening entertainment. The size should be adequate for your expected number of attendees.
Smaller Breakout Rooms: These can be useful for smaller family sub-groups to meet, for children’s activities, or for quiet time.
Outdoor Event Spaces: Patios, gardens, or beachfront areas can offer beautiful settings for ceremonies, receptions, or casual gatherings, especially in good weather.
Audiovisual Equipment: If you plan on giving speeches, showing a slideshow, or having a DJ, ensure the hotel can provide or easily arrange for AV equipment.

The availability and flexibility of these spaces can significantly impact the flow and success of your organized reunion events.

Location and Accessibility: Easy for Everyone to Reach

The destination itself is a major factor. Consider:

Ease of Travel: Is the location easily accessible by car, train, or plane? Proximity to major airports with direct flights is often a deciding factor for families spread across the country or globe.
Local Attractions: Does the surrounding area offer something of interest to your family? This could be historical sites, natural beauty, amusement parks, or cultural experiences.
Transportation Options: Once at the destination, are there convenient local transportation options? This is especially important if your reunion group includes older members or those who don’t drive.
Accessibility for All: Ensure the hotel and surrounding areas are accessible for guests with mobility issues, including ramps, elevators, and accessible rooms.

A location that is both appealing and easy to get to for the majority of your family members will contribute to higher attendance and a less stressful travel experience.

Top Hotel Chains and Brands Renowned for Family Reunions

While specific hotels are often the best choice, certain hotel chains and brands have a reputation for catering well to families and often have properties that are particularly adept at hosting larger groups and events like family reunions. These brands often invest in amenities and services that are essential for multi-generational travel.

Marriott International

Marriott International boasts a vast portfolio of brands, many of which are excellent for family reunions. Their commitment to service, diverse offerings, and widespread presence make them a reliable choice.

JW Marriott: Often found in luxury destinations, JW Marriott hotels provide a sophisticated yet family-friendly environment. They typically feature spacious rooms, excellent dining options, and often beautiful pool areas. Their convention and meeting facilities are usually top-notch, making them ideal for larger groups needing event spaces.
Marriott Hotels & Resorts: This flagship brand is known for its consistent quality, comfortable accommodations, and excellent amenities. Many Marriott properties have large suites, family-friendly restaurants, and extensive recreational facilities. They are also experienced in handling group bookings and events.
Renaissance Hotels: Renaissance properties often have a more boutique feel while still offering the amenities needed for families. They tend to be located in vibrant areas and may offer unique local experiences.
Gaylord Hotels: A standout for large-scale family reunions, Gaylord properties are massive resorts with indoor atriums, extensive dining, massive entertainment complexes, and a wide range of activities. Examples include Gaylord Opryland in Nashville, Gaylord Palms in Florida, and Gaylord Texan. These are almost like destinations in themselves.
Autograph Collection: This collection of independent hotels means each property is unique, but they all uphold Marriott’s standards. You can find some truly special locations with unique character that could make your reunion memorable.

Marriott’s loyalty program, Marriott Bonvoy, also offers rewards that can be beneficial for those planning and paying for a reunion.

Hilton Worldwide

Similar to Marriott, Hilton’s diverse brand family offers numerous options for family reunions.

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts: For a truly luxurious and iconic reunion experience, Waldorf Astoria properties are unparalleled. While often more formal, they offer exceptional service, gourmet dining, and elegant surroundings that can make a special occasion even more memorable.
Hilton Hotels & Resorts: The core Hilton brand is a solid choice, offering reliable comfort, spacious rooms, and a range of amenities that cater to families. Many Hilton hotels are well-equipped for meetings and events, and their locations are often convenient.
Embassy Suites by Hilton: This brand is practically tailor-made for family reunions. Every suite features a separate living area and a private bedroom, and they all include complimentary breakfast and evening reception with drinks and snacks. This significantly adds to the convenience and cost-effectiveness for families.
Homewood Suites by Hilton: Another excellent option for extended stays and family groups, Homewood Suites offers suite-style accommodations with full kitchens, complimentary breakfast, and evening social gatherings. The kitchens are a huge plus for families looking to save on dining costs or prepare special meals.
DoubleTree by Hilton: Known for its warm chocolate chip cookies upon arrival, DoubleTree hotels offer comfortable rooms and good service. Many also have suites and are equipped to handle group functions.

Hilton Honors is another robust loyalty program that can provide value for reunion organizers.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Hyatt offers a blend of upscale and family-focused properties that can be ideal for reunions.

Grand Hyatt: These are large, iconic hotels typically located in major cities or resort destinations. They boast extensive amenities, multiple dining venues, impressive meeting spaces, and often beautiful pool complexes, making them well-suited for large family gatherings.
Hyatt Regency: Similar to Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Regency properties are designed to accommodate both business and leisure travelers. They excel in convention and event facilities and offer a good range of services for families.
Hyatt Centric: Located in vibrant city centers, Hyatt Centric hotels offer a stylish and contemporary atmosphere. While perhaps less focused on extensive recreational facilities, they provide comfortable accommodations and are often close to local attractions, which can be a draw for families looking to explore.
Park Hyatt: For a more intimate and luxurious reunion, Park Hyatt offers refined elegance and exceptional service. While potentially more expensive, they provide an exclusive experience for special celebrations.
Hyatt House and Hyatt Place: These select-service brands are excellent for more casual, budget-conscious reunions. Hyatt House offers suite-style rooms with kitchens, while Hyatt Place provides spacious rooms with a separate living area. Both include complimentary breakfast.

World of Hyatt is their well-regarded loyalty program.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG)

IHG has a broad range of brands, some of which are particularly suited for family reunions.

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts: These luxury hotels offer a sophisticated experience with excellent service, fine dining, and often beautiful locations. They are well-equipped to handle large events and provide a memorable backdrop for a special family occasion.
Kimpton Hotels: Known for their unique boutique style and exceptional customer service, Kimpton hotels can offer a more personalized and memorable reunion experience. They often include amenities like complimentary bike rentals and social wine hours, which can be fun for families.
Holiday Inn: The classic family-friendly brand, Holiday Inn is a reliable choice. Many Holiday Inn properties feature pools, on-site restaurants with kids’ menus, and can accommodate families comfortably. Some larger Holiday Inn Select or Holiday Inn Conference Center properties are even better equipped for groups.
Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts: Often featuring business centers and meeting facilities, Crowne Plaza hotels are also well-suited for family events. They typically offer comfortable rooms, good dining options, and amenities like fitness centers and pools.

IHG Rewards Club is their loyalty program.

Destination-Specific Hotels Perfect for Family Reunions

Beyond hotel brands, certain hotels, often resorts, are renowned for their ability to host memorable family reunions due to their unique offerings and locations. These are places that go above and beyond to cater to the diverse needs of a multi-generational group.

The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA

This Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond resort is a legendary destination for a reason. The Broadmoor offers an unparalleled experience for families looking for a blend of luxury, activity, and impeccable service.

Accommodations: Offers a wide range of rooms, suites, and even cottages. Many suites provide separate living areas, making them ideal for families. The historic elegance of the hotel adds a unique charm.
Dining: Features numerous award-winning dining venues, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments, ensuring there’s something for every taste.
Activities: The sheer volume and variety of activities are staggering. Guests can enjoy three championship golf courses, a renowned spa, bowling, tennis, hiking, fishing, kayaking on the lake, horseback riding, and a stunning outdoor pool complex. For younger guests, there’s a dedicated children’s program.
Event Spaces: The Broadmoor boasts extensive meeting and event spaces, capable of hosting anything from intimate family dinners to larger receptions.
Location: Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, it offers beautiful scenery and opportunities for exploring the natural surroundings.

It’s a destination that provides a complete vacation experience, minimizing the need to leave the property for entertainment.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Orlando, Florida, USA

For families who love magic and are headed to Orlando, the Grand Floridian is an exceptional choice. This Victorian-era inspired resort offers luxury and proximity to the Disney magic.

Accommodations: Offers luxurious rooms and suites, many with stunning views of the Magic Kingdom or the resort’s lagoon. Deluxe villas are also available for larger families needing more space and kitchen facilities.
Dining: Features some of Walt Disney World’s finest dining, including signature restaurants, casual options, and character dining experiences that are a hit with all ages.
Activities: Guests have access to pools, watersports, a spa, arcades, and, of course, the unparalleled access to Walt Disney World parks, including a short monorail ride to Magic Kingdom and Epcot. The resort itself has beautiful grounds for strolling.
Event Spaces: Offers elegant ballrooms and smaller meeting rooms, perfect for organizing reunion meals or gatherings.
Location: Prime location within Walt Disney World, offering convenience and a magical atmosphere for all family members, especially those who are Disney fans.

The immersive theming and attention to detail create a truly unforgettable backdrop for a reunion.

Banff Springs Hotel, Alberta, Canada

Known as the “Castle in the Rockies,” the Fairmont Banff Springs is a historic and breathtakingly beautiful hotel that offers an unforgettable setting for a family reunion.

Accommodations: Offers a variety of rooms and suites, many with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The grand, historic architecture adds to the allure.
Dining: Boasts multiple dining options, from fine dining with panoramic views to more casual pubs and cafes, catering to diverse tastes.
Activities: Guests can enjoy the world-class Willow Stream Spa, an indoor pool, golf, tennis, hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the charming town of Banff. In winter, skiing and other snow sports are readily available.
Event Spaces: The hotel’s historic ballrooms and meeting spaces are grand and elegant, perfect for hosting formal dinners or gatherings.
Location: Situated in the heart of Banff National Park, it offers unparalleled natural beauty and access to outdoor adventures.

The sheer grandeur and natural surroundings make this a truly spectacular choice.

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, Kaanapali, Maui, Hawaii, USA

For a tropical family reunion, the Hyatt Regency Maui offers a fantastic blend of Hawaiian hospitality, beautiful surroundings, and family-friendly amenities.

Accommodations: Offers a range of rooms and suites, many with ocean views. Suites often include separate living areas, and the resort is known for its comfortable and well-appointed spaces.
Dining: Features multiple restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, including Hawaiian specialties, Japanese, and Italian, as well as casual beachfront dining.
Activities: The resort boasts an incredible 6-acre “water playground” with multiple pools, waterfalls, waterslides, and a swim-up bar. There’s also a wildlife sanctuary on-site, luaus, tennis courts, and access to the beautiful Kaanapali Beach for swimming, snorkeling, and watersports.
Event Spaces: Offers a wide array of indoor and outdoor event spaces, from grand ballrooms to intimate beachfront locations, perfect for any type of reunion gathering.
Location: Located on the world-famous Kaanapali Beach, offering stunning ocean views and easy access to the sand and surf.

The combination of beautiful scenery, excellent amenities, and a true resort feel makes this a top pick for a Hawaiian family reunion.

The Grove Park Inn, Asheville, North Carolina, USA

This historic resort in the Blue Ridge Mountains offers a charming and rustic yet luxurious experience for a family reunion.

Accommodations: Offers a variety of rooms and suites in its historic main inn and modern lodge, many with fireplaces and mountain views. The rustic charm is a significant draw.
Dining: Features several restaurants and lounges, including a popular steakhouse and a more casual spot with mountain views.
Activities: Home to one of the nation’s top spas, it also offers an 18-hole Donald Ross-designed golf course, tennis, hiking trails in the surrounding mountains, and indoor and outdoor pools.
Event Spaces: Offers a range of ballrooms and smaller meeting rooms, many with historic character and stunning views, suitable for various reunion events.
Location: Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering incredible natural beauty, proximity to hiking, and the vibrant arts scene of Asheville.

The Grove Park Inn provides a unique atmosphere that encourages relaxation and family bonding amidst stunning natural scenery.

The Breakers Palm Beach, Palm Beach, Florida, USA

For an elegant and luxurious family reunion in a classic Florida setting, The Breakers Palm Beach is a top-tier choice.

Accommodations: Offers beautifully appointed rooms and suites, many with ocean views. The classic luxury of the resort is evident in every detail.
Dining: Features an impressive array of acclaimed restaurants, from casual beachfront grills to sophisticated dining rooms, providing diverse culinary experiences for all.
Activities: Boasts five pools, a private beach, a championship 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, a fitness center, and a renowned spa. The sophisticated atmosphere appeals to adults, while the beach and pools provide ample fun for younger generations.
Event Spaces: Offers some of the most elegant and versatile event spaces in South Florida, perfect for sophisticated reunion dinners, cocktail receptions, and other gatherings.
Location: Prime oceanfront location in the heart of Palm Beach, offering a classic luxurious Florida vacation experience.

The combination of beachfront elegance, world-class amenities, and impeccable service makes it an ideal choice for a memorable and refined family reunion.

The Lodge at Woodloch, Hawley, Pennsylvania, USA

While primarily known as a spa and wellness retreat, The Lodge at Woodloch can be an exceptional choice for a family reunion focused on relaxation, rejuvenation, and connection, particularly for families who appreciate a more tranquil environment.

Accommodations: Offers comfortable and luxurious suites and rooms, many with fireplaces and private verandas, designed for comfort and relaxation.
Dining: Features gourmet, healthy, and delicious meals, often utilizing fresh, local ingredients. The dining experience is a central part of the wellness focus, and they can accommodate dietary needs.
Activities: The core of Woodloch’s appeal is its extensive program of activities. This includes guided hikes, yoga, meditation, strength training, art classes, cooking demonstrations, and a wide range of enrichment workshops. It’s an opportunity for families to learn new skills together or simply unwind. They also have a beautiful lake for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Event Spaces: While not a traditional conference center, they have various comfortable gathering spaces and can arrange private dining for family groups.
Location: Set on a pristine 500-acre private estate in Northeastern Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains, offering a secluded and natural setting.

This option is perfect for families looking for a reunion that emphasizes well-being and shared, mindful experiences rather than constant high-energy entertainment.

Tips for Booking and Planning Your Reunion Hotel

Once you’ve identified potential hotels, the planning process begins. Here are some tips to make booking and organizing your family reunion hotel stay as smooth as possible:

Start Early

The earlier you begin, the better. Popular hotels, especially those well-suited for large groups, can book up months, even a year or more, in advance. This is especially true for peak seasons or desirable destinations. Early booking also gives you more leverage with pricing and room selection.

Designate a Reunion Coordinator (or a Small Committee)

Trying to plan a reunion on your own can be overwhelming. Designate one or two people to be the main point of contact with the hotel. This person (or committee) will handle bookings, payments, and communication with the hotel, then disseminate information to the family. It streamlines the process for both the hotel and your family.

Get a Detailed Group Contract

Ensure you have a comprehensive contract that outlines all details: room rates (and any applicable taxes or resort fees), cancellation policies, deposit requirements, meal packages, event space bookings, and any included amenities. Read it carefully before signing.

Negotiate for Perks and Discounts

For large group bookings, hotels are often willing to negotiate. This could include:

Discounted room rates for a certain number of rooms.
Complimentary room(s) for organizers or hosts.
Free Wi-Fi for all guests.
Discounted rates for group meals or events.
Waived resort fees or parking fees.
A dedicated event manager or concierge for your group.

Consider a Room Block

Most hotels will offer a room block for groups. This reserves a specific number of rooms at a negotiated rate. You’ll need to determine how many rooms you anticipate needing and for what types of configurations (singles, doubles, suites). The hotel will usually have a cut-off date for booking within the block.

Leverage the Hotel’s Event Services

Hotels with dedicated event and catering staff are invaluable. They can help you plan everything from welcome receptions and formal dinners to children’s activities and audiovisual needs. Utilize their expertise to make your events seamless.

Communicate Clearly with Family Members

Once you have the hotel booked, create a clear communication plan for your family. Provide them with:

The hotel name, address, and contact information.
Booking instructions, including any group code or contact person.
The cut-off date for booking.
A tentative itinerary of planned reunion events.
Information about on-site amenities and nearby attractions.
Payment deadlines and methods.

A dedicated reunion website or social media group can be very helpful for disseminating information.

Factor in All Costs

Beyond room rates, consider potential additional costs such as resort fees, parking, meals, activities, taxes, and gratuities. Be transparent with your family about what is included and what will be an additional expense.

Plan for Different Needs

Remember that your family will have varying needs. Ensure there are accessible rooms for those with mobility issues, quiet spaces for those who need them, and a variety of activities to cater to different age groups and interests. A good reunion hotel will be able to assist with these arrangements.

Conclusion

Choosing the right hotel for a family reunion is a significant decision that can profoundly impact the success and enjoyment of the entire event. By carefully considering accommodation options, dining experiences, available activities, event spaces, and location, you can find a venue that caters to the diverse needs of your family. Whether you opt for a sprawling resort like The Broadmoor, a magical Disney property, or a comfortable and well-equipped hotel chain like Embassy Suites or Homewood Suites, the key is to find a place that fosters connection, creates opportunities for shared experiences, and allows generations to come together in comfort and joy. With thorough planning and the right venue, your next family reunion is sure to be a cherished memory for years to come.